Are you a parent or about to be a parent?
It can be an exciting time, but also a mentally challenging one.
We all want to do our best, and that includes learning about what things we should avoid if our goal is to be a great parent.
Unfortunately, there are some toxic parenting traits that can be all too easy to fall into.
This is not a complete list, however, these are some common ones to think about.
What does it mean to be overbearing?
It is a behavior characterized by controlling, bossy, and meddlesome actions.
An overbearing parent is often one who helicopter parents, or constantly hovers and tries to micromanage their child's life.
This kind of parenting style can be stifling for a child.
They may feel like they can never make a move without their parent's approval or supervision.
It can also prevent them from developing a sense of independence and self-reliance.
So, if you want to be a great parent, try to avoid being overbearing.
Give your children some space to grow and make mistakes. It will ultimately serve them well in the long run.
No one is perfect, and that includes parents.
However, some parents can be excessively critical of their children.
They may find fault in everything they do or say.
This kind of behavior can be very damaging to a child's self-esteem and confidence.
It can also lead to them feeling like they can never please their parent no matter what they do.
If you find yourself being critical of your children, try to take a step back and see things from their perspective.
Try to give them some constructive criticism instead of tearing them down. Consider avoiding being excessively critical as a toxic parenting trait.
Dismissive parents are often the opposite of overbearing parents.
Instead of constantly hovering, they completely tune out their child's needs and feelings.
This can be just as damaging as being overbearing.
Children who have dismissive parents may feel like they don't matter or that their feelings are not valid.
They may also have a hard time developing close relationships with others.
If you find yourself being dismissive, try to take a more active interest in your child's life.
Make an effort to really listen to them and be there for them when they need you. This is a toxic parenting trait that should be avoided.
Uninvolved parents are those who take a hands-off approach to parenting.
They may not be particularly interested in their child's life or what is going on with them.
This can lead to children feeling neglected and unimportant.
It can also make it difficult for them to form close attachments with others.
If you find yourself being uninvolved, try to make more of an effort to connect with your child.
Show them that you care about them and what is going on in their life.
Take an interest in the things they are interested in. Being uninvolved is another toxic parenting trait that one should avoid.
One of the best things you can do as a parent is to be encouraging.
Encouragement helps build self-esteem and confidence.
It lets children know that you believe in them and their abilities.
Encouragement also helps motivate children to keep trying even when they feel like they can't do something.
So, if you want to be a great parent, make sure you are encouraging your children.
Tell them how proud you are of them and offer words of support and encouragement when they are struggling.
Supportive parents are there for their children when they need them.
They offer emotional support and guidance when their children are going through tough times.
They also provide practical support, such as help with homework or transportation to activities.
Being supportive can make a world of difference in a child's life.
It can help them feel loved and valued.
It can also give them the strength they need to overcome challenges.
Be there for them when they need you and offer your help and guidance.
Let them know that you are, always.
To be a great parent, you need to be interested in your child's life and development.
You should know what is going on with them both at school and at home.
You should also be aware of their interests, friends, and activities.
This can help you provide the guidance and support they need. It can also help you spot potential problems early on.
Talk to them regularly and ask about their day. Show an interest in the things they are interested in.
And, most importantly, be there for them when they need you.
Consistency is important in parenting.
Children need to know what to expect from their parents.
They need to know that their parents will follow through on their promises and keep their word.
They also need rules and boundaries that are consistently enforced.
If you are inconsistent with your children, they may become confused or anxious.
They may also start to misbehave.
To be a great parent, you need to be consistent in your words and actions.
Set clear rules and expectations and stick to them.
Be fair and firm with your children.
It is important to set reasonable expectations for your children.
If you expect too much from them, they may feel like they can never please you.
This can lead to feelings of frustration and inadequacy.
It is also important to be realistic about your child's abilities.
Don't expect them to be perfect or to always excel.
Instead, focus on their efforts and praise them for their successes.
Children need structure and guidance in their lives.
They need to know what is expected of them and they need rules to follow.
Without structure and guidance, children can feel lost and confused.
They may also start to misbehave.
As a parent, you should provide your children with the structure and guidance they need.
Set clear rules and expectations.
Enforce those rules consistently.
And provide your children with the support and guidance they need to grow and develop into responsible adults.
Parenting is a difficult but rewarding job.
To be a great parent, you need to be loving and supportive. You also need to be interested in your child's life and development. And you need to be consistent in your words and actions.
Set clear rules and expectations and provide your children with the structure and guidance they need.
Most importantly, be there for them when they need you.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
You can teach your child persistence by modeling the behavior yourself, encouraging them to take risks, setting goals and tracking progress, praising effort, and providing support and guidance.
